Have you or a family member been injured or killed due to someone else's negligence? You might be considering a personal injury lawsuit to reestablish community safety standards and recover your lawful compensation. But what exactly does that involved?
This article will walk you through the personal injury process, outlining the typical steps involved and the approach you can expect.
Understanding the Personal Injury Lawsuit Timeline
The exact timeline of a personal injury lawsuit can vary depending on the severity of your injuries, the complexity of the case, and evidentiary issues. However, here's a general breakdown of the common stages:
- Initial Consultation: Discuss your case with a personal injury lawyer to determine if you have a valid claim. Not all claims are compensable for a variety of reasons.
- Investigation and Case Preparation: Your lawyer gathers evidence, medical records, and other records. This can be an extensive process, especially where injuries are ongoing.
- Demand and Negotiation: Your lawyer presents a settlement demand to the at-fault party's insurance company. Negotiations may ensue. This step can occur again at any point.
- Lawsuit Filing: To protect your interests and especially where there are chronic issues, your lawyer files a lawsuit in civil court.
- Discovery: Both sides exchange information and witness testimonies.
- Mediation (1-day event): A neutral third-party attempts to facilitate a settlement.
- Trial: If mediation fails, your case goes before a judge.
- Post-Trial: The judgment is reached, and damages are awarded (if applicable).
Important Considerations Throughout the Process
- Statute of Limitations: Each state has a time limit (statute of limitations) to file a personal injury lawsuit. Don't delay seeking legal counsel to ensure you meet this deadline. The timelines are different for different parties involved.
- Case Complexity: Complex cases involving multiple parties or severe injuries may take longer to resolve.
- Evidence Collection: The sooner you start gathering evidence, the stronger your case will be.
Remember: This is a general overview, and the specifics of your case may differ. Consulting with a qualified personal injury lawyer in the event you or a loved one is seriously injured or killed is essential to understand the intricacies of the lawsuit process and protect your rights. For over 17 years Travis Bissett at Stringam LLP has properly handled hundreds of personal injury claims for clients all over Alberta. Please make an appointment today for your free consultation or reach out directly to tbissett@stringam.ca.
The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.
